Last updated 12:02, Wednesday, 02 July 2008

DESIGN and décor company G R Ltd went back to school to put the finishing touches to Greengate Junior School’s new reception and library extension.

COLIN SMITHWITH WORDS BY NATALIE CHAPPLES --- Head Colin LINDSEY DICKINGSSmith from Greengate Junior School Friday 23rd June 2006. LINDSEY DICKINGS REF: 0341267

Colin Smith, headteacher, said: “Previously, the library was located in a corridor of the school and although it was well used we realised we required more space for the children.

“We are confident that we have created a wonderful new learning space for the children to use and enjoy.”

The new library facility offers 450 sq m of learning space and will also accommodate a poetry seating area, have internet access and a plasma screen.

The new arts annexe leading from the library will be used as a packed lunch area during the day and be transformed into an arts block in the evening for adult learning, with a range of evening classes from pottery to arts and crafts.

The total work cost around £350,000, with the money coming from the school’s capital fund. Work started in July 2007 when the old part of the school was demolished.

The school ran a competition to find a budding artist, and children were asked to create a design that depicts the school today. Local interior designer, Laura Flynn, of Laura Flynn Designs, chose the winning design and has painted it as a mural to adorn the ceiling of the new library.

It will be unveiled at the opening of the new library and the winning pupil will get a free bedroom makeover, kindly donated by G R Ltd.

Gary Robinson, director of G R Ltd, said: “With the colours chosen we have added to the airy feel of the new library and have used a soft colour with hints of peach, aptly named cuddles, which we hope will encourage the children to relax and enjoy their new surroundings.”

The school is using its 135th birthday celebration to open the new facility. The Open Day will be held between 9.30am to midday, 1.15pm to 3.15pm and 4pm to 6.30 pm and ex-pupils and the community are invited to join pupils and staff.

There are performances and events throughout celebration week.

Tomorrow evening the school’s chair of governors, Joe Wardman, will open the library at 6pm, when the mural will also be unveiled.

Mr Smith said: “We are hoping that all the local community, prospective parents, ex-pupils and people of Barrow will join us at some time during the day to see what we have created.”

l If any local companies who are interested in supporting Greengate Junior School and would like to sponsor the plasma screens, please contact Colin Smith directly on 01229 894628.